| Date | November 2020 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 20N.3op3.HL.TZ0.3 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Evaluate | Question number | 3 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 2: Japan in the Age of the Samurai (1180–1333)
Evaluate the impact of the samurai on Japanese society and culture.
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the impact of the samurai on Japanese society and culture. Candidates may argue that the samurai were held in high regard in Japanese society because they were seen as honourable. The ideas of the Bushido Code, particularly those of honesty and respect, became highly influential and valued in Japanese society. The Emperor’s power declined in this period and essentially the samurai dominated the government, which in turn gave them increased status and power in society. Candidates may challenge the assumption in the question and argue that other factors, such as Confucianism, had a greater impact on Japanese society and culture. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Examiners report
The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the impact of the samurai on Japanese society and culture. A few responses were seen to this question, but they were very descriptive in nature. Candidates could have challenged the statement by arguing that other factors, such as Confucianism, were also highly influential in Japanese society.
